Fuzzy logic models for BOD removal prediction in free-water surface constructed wetlands

摘要

Fuzzy logic-based methods have been recently applied to environmental problems, demonstrating appropriateness to address imprecise data. A methodology, based on fuzzy inference systems (F1S) is presented, in an effort to assess organic matter removal efficiency in free-water surface (FWS) constructed wetlands (CWs). A fuzzy model was developed and is validated using experimental data collected in a two-year period in five pilot-scale FWS CW units. The CWs differed in plan view shape, soil type of the substrate material and plant species, and operated under four different hydraulic residence times (HRTs) at various ambient conditions. Model predictions showed good agreement with the experimental data. An effort was also made to collect data from the literature and verify the model using independent data from various other CWs of different settings and operating conditions. The proposed methodology seems to be a satisfactory modeling tool to be used in predicting FWS CW performance.